Michael Hyman Named Denver Deputy City Attorney

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock today appointed Michael Hyman as deputy city attorney for the City and County of Denver. The position is responsible for helping manage daily operations of the City Attorney’s Office and advising the city on a wide range of legal and policy issues.

“Michael is a proven legal authority respected throughout the region for his skill and expertise in municipal litigation issues, and we are proud to have him join the city team here as Deputy City Attorney,” Mayor Hancock said in a press release.

As Deputy City Attorney, Hyman will manage the operations of one of the largest public law offices in the west. He will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of over 100 attorneys and 100 staff.

“Michael’s reputation and nearly 30 years of experience advising municipalities will be a phenomenal asset to our office, and I couldn’t be prouder that he is joining our dedicated team of city attorneys,” said City Attorney Kristin Bronson. “Denver faces the complex legal challenges of a growing city, and we are always looking for the very best talent. Mike is one of the very best, and we are fortunate that he has decided to bring that talent to Denver.”

Hyman currently serves as the City Attorney for the City of Aurora. In that role, which he has held since September 2014, Hyman is a key advisor and represents the Aurora mayor, city council, city manager and deputy city managers. He has managed all litigation involving the city at the federal and state level, exercising final settlement authority.

“It’s an honor to join the Denver City Attorney’s Office, and I’m thankful to be given this opportunity by Mayor Hancock to bring my expertise here to Denver,” Hyman said. “I look forward to getting to work with Kristin Bronson and my fellow Denver city attorneys to serve the best interests of Denver’s residents.”

Hyman first joined the Aurora City Attorney’s Office in 1986, and throughout his over 30 years of service in the office in both the criminal and civil divisions, he has represented the City of Aurora on several major issues, including, among other cases, the landmark City of Aurora v. Acosta, whichestablished the legal principle that Colorado governments may free themselves by popular vote from revenue restrictions imposed by the TABOR amendment.

Cristal Torres DeHerrera was the previous deputy city attorney. She left the office to become chief of staff at Denver International Airport in April.